The American Bakers Association (ABA) and Retail Bakers of America (RBA) have entered a Letter of Intent (LOI) to begin discussions on a potential affiliate structure, designed to support the long-term growth and sustainability of the US baking industry. 

The agreement, expected to be finalised in the second quarter of 2026, ensures that each association retains its independent governance while enabling strategic collaboration.

Under the proposed arrangement, both organisations aim to identify opportunities for operational efficiencies, membership engagement, and advocacy alignment.

ABA president and chief executive officer Eric Dell highlighted that the affiliation will build on the existing close working relationship between the two associations, providing operational efficiencies for RBA while creating a unified voice for advocacy across commercial and retail baking sectors. He underlined that the structure aims to enhance membership value while maintaining RBA’s unique identity.

Bill Quigg, ABA chair and president of Richmond Baking, noted that aligning the associations’ strengths will allow both organisations to operate more efficiently, connect members more effectively, and advance initiatives across the sector. He emphasised that the collaboration will enable both associations to deliver enhanced value and accelerate efforts to support growth and innovation within the baking industry.

The partnership is intended to strengthen advocacy efforts on industry-wide issues, provide access to shared resources, and create synergies that support professional development and sector growth. ABA will serve as a conduit for national advocacy, while RBA retains its educational programmes and expertise tailored to retail and commercial bakers.

Read more about how ABA and RBA are collaborating to shape the future of the US baking industry in the full story.

(Photo credits to American Bakers Association’s official website)